Maple Highlands Trail Invaded
This letter is in response to over 100 jeeps that were allowed to use the Maple Highland Trail on Sunday, Oct. 11, for a “Geauga Jeep Invasion” fundraiser for veterans’ services.
For those who do not know, the Maple Highlands Trail was specifically made for hikers and bikers, plus the Amish in their buggies. It was never made for motorized vehicles, including jeeps. This is the actual write-up in the Geauga Park District webpage for Maple Highlands Trail:
“The scenic 20-mile Maple Highlands Trail is ideal for walking, biking, running, cross country skiing and more! The Trail connects to facilities and restrooms at Mountain Run Station, Claridon Woodlands, Headwaters Park and Swine Creek Reservation.”
Due to this “jeep invasion,” hikers, bikers and horses were not allowed to access the trail on a beautiful sunny Sunday which would normally have lots of use. And, with over 100 vehicles using the path, how much damage was done to the trail? Was the public notified of the closure ahead of time? Who made this decision to suddenly change the rules for the Maple Highlands Trail for a jeep rally? Was this one of many very irresponsible acts by Geauga Park District Commissioners and/or Judge Grendell?
There are plenty of “trails” for motorized vehicles – they are called roads. Why would this rally not take a scenic tour using roads through Geauga County? If you want to honor veterans, how about using the old Wicked Woods golf course that Geauga Park District bought and renamed Veterans Legacy Park?
I am not against honoring veterans; I am against the misuse of park land for no reason at all.
Katherine Malmquist
South Russell Village
